Recently, I was at my son’s house as they were unpacking a new set of nonstick cookware. They showed me their old nonstick cookware set, and I was shocked. Not only has the coating disintegrated on the cooking surface, but it also came off on the sides.
His family is brutal on cookware. It must be nonstick and dishwasher-safe. Additionally, it should be scratch-resistant because sometimes they use metal spoons and spatulas.
They recently read about Forever chemicals and had some concerns about the safety of the cookware. Having the coating scratched off caused concern, so they chose the new Hexclad set that Gordon Ramsey advertises.

I also had some of the same brand cookware frypans he threw out. Mine did not have the coating peel off, but I did notice some scratches, and the pan was no longer as nonstick as it was when new.
Once home, I decided to update some of my cookware.
I can share what I did if you want to update your cookware. First, I made a plan of action.
Assess Current Cookware
I had three significant cookware types: stainless steel, cast iron, nonstick, and ceramic/glass. I looked for damaged pieces and was concerned about the coatings of the nonstick item.
I decided to throw out some, donate some, and keep smaller items I would use as an empty nester.
I kept my All-Clad and Cephalon stainless steel cookware. I have three saucepans, two 12-inch fry pans, an 8-inch fry pan with higher sides, and an 8-inch omelet pan.
I have a small Lodge cast-iron fry pan I use to sear steaks. I decided to donate my large cast-iron grill pan and 12-inch fry pan. They are in good condition but too heavy for me. Also, I am an empty nester, so I only need a pan with room to cook for two or three people.
Next, I came to nonstick cookware. I only have nonstick fry pans. I noticed some scratches in two, and because I had put them in the dishwasher as the manufacturer recommended, I saw less nonstick ability on others, so I threw them all out. High cooking temps and scratches in the lining of these pans can expose you to toxins.
Chose what you still Need
As I said, I no longer cook large meals, so I wanted to pare down my cookware to a few items I would use weekly.
Stainless steel is a safe, durable, non-reactive material. It heats up well, holds heat, and cleans up easily. You can put it in the dishwasher, but I wash my pans by hand. If you don’t heat it properly, food can stick, so there is a learning curve, but it is easily managed.
Cast iron is rugged and can handle very high heat. I use it to get a sear on steaks, chicken, and seafood. It also has a learning curve- it must be correctly seasoned and washed by hand. My little Lodge pan is sufficient for my needs.
I do use enamel-coated cast iron. I love my Le Cruset round and oval Dutch ovens. Depending on what I am cooking, I have three sizes. The petite 2-pound guy makes great rice.
Finally, the nonstick issue
I recently bought an enamel-coated cast iron pan for a nonstick pan. It can be started on the stovetop and then put in the oven. The cast iron holds heat, and the enamel is a nontoxic, nonstick product. Made In makes it. Another great brand is Caraway Cookware. The ceramic/ glass coating is made without Forever chemicals like PFOA or PTFE.
I also bought a Made In 8 in ceramic/glass fry pan. I will use this to cook eggs.
Evaluate Features
I am pleased with my old stainless set and French Pots/Dutch Ovens. Le Creuset and Staub are my favorites. I wanted to add some nonstick items. I concerned myself with Four main features:
Trusted Brand & Durability & Maintenance
I started out comparing Made In and Hex Clad Cookware. I found this site, and it helped me make up my mind. SEE HERE
My son and family are harder on their cookware than I am, and because HexClad used a chemical in the coating, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), I opted for Made In. Maintenance is easier for HexClad. I will have to use a special cleaner for the Le Cruset. I will wash the new nonstick enamel by hand.
Nontoxic
My utmost concern was the certification for PFOA—Forever Chemical-free. PFOA, for example—one of the thousands of chemicals that fall into the category of PFAS(per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances)—has been clearly linked to health risks.
Size
While my son chose to buy a complete set of cookware, I only wanted to add to my collection. After trimming down the collection to smaller pans, I only needed nonstick fry pans. Again, size mattered, and I only wanted 8—or 10-inch items. I was able to choose those cookware items at Made In. However, I could have done the same with Caraway.
Cost
While I only needed two items, I did go for a more mid-range but trusted brand. However, Caraway is also a good and trusted brand with a more economical price tag. I just found out that Amazon sells both brands.
Conclusions
Conclusion
Stainless steel and cast iron are well-known cookware materials, and most people know the special need for using and cleaning these materials. Le Cruset and other ceramic-coated pots have also been around for many years, and the necessary instructions for cleaning are also known to consumers. The main confusing issues have revolved around nonstick cookware. Since Teflon was found dangerous, all other coatings and linings have been touted and evaluated.
When chemicals became an issue forever, and the EPA recognized their hazards, the cookware industry designed newer materials that are now being scrutinized.
I looked at the following brands: Made In, HexClad, Caraway, and GreenPan. GreenPan and Hexclad have had lawsuits regarding other chemicals in their ceramic coatings. Consumer reports and LeafScore noted no problems with Caraway, Alva, Xtreme, or Made-in. I am a retired medical researcher/consultant, so I tend to get a little over the top about research.
Here are a just few of the links to some sites I used in my research:
How to avoid PFAS SEE HERE
Best Frying Pans to avoid PFAS. SEE HERE
What are Forever Chemicals? SEE HERE
I hope my experiences updating my cookware are helpful to you. You should be an involved consumer and look into the product before you buy it. Remember, the right cookware can significantly impact your cooking and overall health! Happy cooking.